Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: A Paid Experience

Nintendo has unveiled the Switch 2 Welcome Tour, a unique game designed to introduce players to the new features of the Nintendo Switch 2. This digital-only game, which will not be included as a pack-in with the console, is set to launch on the same day as the Switch 2 itself. It offers an interactive virtual exhibition where players can explore the new hardware through tech demos, mini-games, and other engaging activities.

During the recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, footage was shown of a player avatar navigating a larger-than-life version of the Switch 2, learning about its features and capabilities. The game includes mini-games such as Speed Golf, Dodge the Spiked Balls, and a Maracas Physics Demo, turning the experience into a sort of virtual museum. Nintendo emphasized that this tour would allow players to understand the system "inside and out in ways they may never have known about otherwise."

Available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop starting on the Switch 2's launch day, the Switch 2 Welcome Tour has sparked some debate among fans. Many are questioning why such an introductory tool is not provided for free as a console pack-in, especially given its educational purpose. As of now, no specific price has been announced for the game.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will hit the market on June 5, 2025, priced at $449.99 USD, with a bundle option including Mario Kart World available for $499.99. Alongside the Switch 2 Welcome Tour, the console will launch with other titles such as Mario Kart World, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and Deltarune Chapters 1 through 4, all vying for consumer attention and spending.

For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements made during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can find our detailed recap here.